HIGHLAND, ILL. — Trouw Nutrition, a leading premix and ingredient supplier to the companion animal nutrition industry, broke ground May 5 on an expansion to its pilot facility in Highland. The company has invested $12.1 million to increase the current plant from 8,100 square feet to 32,052 square feet.

The expansion is Trouw’s first step toward its new growth plan, which includes the use of cutting-edge blending technology. The company will build in technology to limit energy and material usage at the plant.

“This new facility reflects Trouw’s continued investment in our U.S. Companion Animal Division and the broader pet food industry,” said Dan Baker, managing director of Trouw Nutrition’s US operations. “This addition will enable us to grow and expand our unique ingredient offerings for our customers to further support pet health and welfare for years to come.”

The new-and-improved facility will be called the Blending Innovation Center. Construction is scheduled for completion by the end of this year, 2021. The expanded facility is expected to create new jobs in the area upon its completion, and again as Trouw continues to expand in Highland. 

Trouw has once again partnered with The Korte Company on construction of the expanded facility. The Korte Company worked with Trouw to construct the original Pilot Plant.

“This is a very exciting day for the Trouw Nutrition Companion Animal Division,” said Terri Boeser, general manager of Trouw Nutrition’s United States Companion Animal Division. “We are proud to partner with The Korte Company and to begin construction of our new Blending Innovation Center. The Blending Innovation Center will not only bring new opportunities to the pet food industry, but also to the Highland area, where we will expand our footprint and bring new jobs to the area.”

Trouw worked with its partners to identify which capabilities would be needed at the plant to meet long-term customer requirements.

“It’s not every day that you can be part of a team that comes up with an innovative new technology that changes the game,” said Fischer. “Our team has worked for over a year to investigate new ideas, complete a comprehensive design review and have every member of our group provide input on how we will operate. The design will enable us to meet unique customer needs and be a supplier of choice. Combine the innovation with our high standard of quality and the dedication of our great team and we will continue our long history as a mainstay for our community and families.”

Fischer led the operations team that played a key role in designing the new Blending Innovation Center. After the facility is completed, Trouw will conduct validation trials, the company reported, to ensure stringent quality and safety standards are met.

“The Korte Company is proud to be partnering with Trouw once again to design and construct their newest facility in Highland, Illinois and are excited to be working with them as they continue to expand and develop their product lines,” said Jay Korte, client relations for The Korte Company.

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